Summer Care for Your Teeth

Thinking about summer care for your teeth? Probably not.

We are deep into summer, which means many of you have been on vacation or are still planning to head away to a summer destination. While you’re in vacation mode, it’s easy to “bend the rules” for both you and your children and say, “Oh, we’re on vacation. Let’s treat ourselves.” And while we all deserve a treat, it’s still important to stick to some healthy routines to balance all of your summer fun.

Here are eight tips to keep your teeth healthy all summer long.

  1. Drink water. Water is always a healthy choice. Water keeps your mouth moist, helps to wash away plaque-causing bacteria, and improves your health.
  2. Limit sugary snacks. It’s OK to treat yourself while you’re on vacation, but try to limit sodas, sport drinks, lemonade, ice cream, and other sugary treats and desserts. If possible, rinse your mouth with water after consuming any sweet treats. Better yet, grab your toothbrush and toothpaste to keep your mouth fresh and healthy in between meals and snacks.
  3. Don’t chew ice. While it may be tempting to chew ice from a cold drink, we see many people come in with a cracked or chipped tooth after biting down on an ice cube or hard candy. Stay cool and be smart!
  4. Wear a mouth guard. Summer is the time to be outside! And while you’re outside, you may be enjoying some sporting activities. Be sure to use a mouth guard if you are partaking in a sport or activity that could cause a tooth injury by either being hit in the face or by falling. A major tooth injury is a definite way to put a halt to your fun plans.
  5. Don’t delay your dental care. Planning a trip either within or outside of the United States? Be sure to take care of any dental problems before you leave. You may not be able to guarantee access to professional dental care at your destination or en route. Plus, you wouldn’t want to interrupt your vacation schedule to deal with a painful issue.
  6. Eat watermelon. Watermelon is truly the perfect summer snack. It’s mostly made of water and it has just the right amount of sweetness. Watermelon is great for thirst, and it also helps with inflammation, gum disease, and other conditions, such as asthma, diabetes, colon cancer, atherosclerosis, and arthritis. Who knew?
  7. Chew carefully. You may be on the go while enjoying your summer fun, but it’s still important to slow down and enjoy your meals. Eating too fast can cause you to feel hungry a lot sooner, which leads to overeating. Eating too fast may also lead to accidental oral injuries.
  8. Maintain your oral cleaning routines. During summer, take the time to take care of your teeth properly as you would any other time of the year. That means, proper brushing of your teeth, tongue, and gums as well as regular flossing. 

 

Enjoy Your Summer and Call If You Need Us!

Houston Symmes
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